The Museum of Science & History announced a $10 million contribution from CSX Corp. in support of the museum’s Genesis capital campaign.
“This generous contribution will have a lasting impact on our institution, enabling us to create a museum that offers engaging exhibits, dynamic educational programs, and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages on the Northbank of the St. Johns River,” Jill Davis, chair of the Genesis capital campaign cabinet and vice chair of the MOSH board of trustees, said in a March 26 news release.
With the gift, CSX will be recognized as the presenting sponsor of the new Museum of Science & History.
“We are proud to lend our name to an institution that promises to inspire the next generation of leaders in science, technology, engineering and math. These fields directly support our business operations while reinforcing Northeast Florida’s status as a logistics leader,” Joe Hinrichs, CSX president and chief executive officer, said in the release.
The MOSH Genesis capital campaign supports plans for the museum to relocate to a new building on the Downtown Northbank.
“CSX’s use of scientific and innovative principles have made history within the transportation industry. Today, their remarkable contribution makes a different kind of history as the largest single donation to date to the MOSH Genesis capital campaign. We look forward to joining CSX on the Northbank in the years ahead,” MOSH CEO Alistair Dove said in the release.
In May 2023, legislation for a disposition and development agreement for 2.5 acres of city-owned land at the Shipyards property was enacted by City Council. The legislation grants the museum a 40-year ground lease of the land for $1 per year, provides for design of the park and the adjacent Riverwalk and other agreements related to the creation of a new museum and surrounding park spaces.
MOSH opened in its current location on the Southbank in 1969. The museum’s operations have since outgrown the 33,000 square feet of usable exhibit space. Plans for the new facility comprise about 130,000 square feet across three floors.